Owner of Chicago’s Spybar Arrested and Charged With Drug Trafficking

Since its inception in 1996, Spybar has become synonymous with Chicago's identity as a destination to experience live electronic music. However, the storied clubbing institution has found itself at the center of controversy after Dino Gardiakos, its owner, was reportedly arrested and charged with drug trafficking.

Gardiakos was recently arrested at O'Hare International Airport, where he was found to be in possession of a staggering 14 pounds of ketamine and nearly six grams of ecstasy hidden within several containers in his luggage, the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Gardiakos, 43, allegedly admitted the drugs were purchased in London and intended for sale in the Chicagoland area. Prosecutors say the individual from whom Gardiakos purchased the substances additionally provided advice on how to elude detection at O'Hare customs upon his arrival. The charges against him include felony drug trafficking and possession of a controlled substance. 

In response to these charges, a judge has ordered Gardiakos's release on pretrial probation services, pending a court hearing scheduled for April 5th. He was already on probation for a previous felony drug charge at the time of his most recent arrest.